Sailing is a delightful and exhilarating activity, but it also exposes you to the sun’s intense glare and the reflection off the water’s surface. To fully enjoy your time on the open waters while protecting your eyes, choosing the right sunglasses is crucial.
The Importance of Eye Protection
Before delving into the specifics of sailing sunglasses, let’s understand why eye protection is paramount for sailors.
The Sun’s Harmful Effects
The sun, a powerful celestial body, emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that, when exposed to the eyes, pose serious risks. These harmful UV rays can lead to various eye conditions, such as cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens; macular degeneration, the deterioration of the central part of the retina; and photokeratitis, often referred to as “sunburn of the cornea,” causing painful inflammation. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation increases the vulnerability to these conditions, underscoring the importance of wearing proper eye protection, like sunglasses, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities like sailing.
Water’s Reflective Power
Water, as a reflective surface, possesses the remarkable ability to intensify the sun’s rays. When sailing, this reflective power becomes particularly significant, amplifying the impact of UV radiation on your eyes. Surrounded by water on all sides, sailors are exposed to this heightened risk of UV exposure, making it vital to choose sunglasses with UV protection. The water’s reflective nature not only increases the risk of eye damage but also contributes to the discomfort of glare, which underscores the need for polarized sunglasses designed to mitigate these challenges.
Glare Reduction
Sailing presents unique challenges when it comes to glare. Sailors frequently contend with glare emanating from both the sun and the water’s surface. This double dose of glare can severely impede visibility, making it harder to navigate and enjoy the sailing experience. Fortunately, the right sunglasses offer a practical solution. Specifically designed to reduce glare, these sunglasses feature polarized lenses that filter out the horizontally oriented light responsible for glare. By doing so, they enhance visual clarity, alleviate discomfort, and significantly improve overall comfort during your time on the water.
To learn more about the top polarized sunglasses for glare-free sailing, check out this article.
Key Factors to Consider
Selecting the perfect pair of sailing sunglasses requires considering several crucial factors.
UV Protection
When selecting sunglasses for sailing, prioritize those offering 100% UV protection, effectively blocking both UVA and UVB rays. This aspect is non-negotiable when it comes to safeguarding your eyes against the sun’s harmful radiation. UVA rays can contribute to premature aging of the eyes, while UVB rays are notorious for causing sunburn on the eyes’ surface. By choosing sunglasses with full UV protection, you create a robust shield against these risks, reducing the potential for long-term eye damage and ensuring your eye safety while enjoying your maritime adventures.
Lens Material
The choice of lens material plays a pivotal role in the longevity and performance of your sailing sunglasses. Opt for lenses crafted from high-quality materials such as polycarbonate or glass. Polycarbonate lenses are celebrated for their durability, resistance to impact, and lightweight. Glass lenses, on the other hand, offer exceptional optical clarity and scratch resistance. Both materials are ideal for the rigors of sailing, ensuring your lenses withstand the challenges of the open water while providing you with a clear, unobstructed view.
Lens Color and Tint
Lens color and tint are integral components of sailing sunglasses, influencing visibility under various lighting conditions. For sailing, opt for lenses in shades like gray or brown, as they maintain true color perception while effectively reducing brightness. These tints enhance your ability to distinguish between different objects and elements on the water’s surface, contributing to safer navigation. Moreover, consider polarized lenses to complement the chosen tint. Polarization not only reduces glare from sunlight reflecting off the water but also enhances overall visual clarity, making it easier to spot potential obstacles and navigate confidently.
Polarization
Polarized lenses are a paramount feature of sailing sunglasses. Their unique properties effectively eliminate the blinding glare caused by sunlight bouncing off the water’s surface. By filtering out horizontally oriented light, polarized lenses significantly improve visual clarity, allowing you to see beneath the water’s surface and spot potential hazards like rocks or debris. Whether you’re racing or leisurely cruising, the reduction of glare enhances your overall comfort and safety during your sailing experience. For sailors, polarized sunglasses are an invaluable tool for mitigating the challenges of glare while out on the water.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is key when choosing sailing sunglasses. Your sunglasses should fit snugly on your face without causing any pinching, pressure points, or discomfort during prolonged wear. Seek out sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temples, as they enable you to customize the fit to suit your face shape and size. A well-fitting pair ensures that your sunglasses stay securely in place, even in windy conditions, preventing them from sliding down your nose or falling off during maneuvers.
Frame Material
The frame material of your sailing sunglasses should meet specific criteria to withstand the demands of the maritime environment. Opt for materials that are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable. Common choices include nylon, TR-90 (a thermoplastic material), and titanium. These materials not only provide the necessary sturdiness but also contribute to the overall comfort of your sunglasses, ensuring they remain lightweight and comfortable for extended periods on the water.
Lens Coatings
Enhance the longevity and functionality of your sailing sunglasses by considering the inclusion of lens coatings. Anti-scratch coatings, as the name suggests, fortify your lenses against scratches that can impair visibility. Additionally, anti-reflective coatings minimize glare caused by light reflecting off the lens surfaces, further improving your visual acuity in diverse lighting conditions. These coatings collectively contribute to the overall durability and performance of your sunglasses, making them well-suited for the challenges of sailing.
Wraparound Design
Sunglasses with a wraparound design offer an additional layer of protection and comfort. This design extends the coverage area, providing better peripheral protection from wind, water, and sunlight. It minimizes the intrusion of unwanted elements, ensuring a more enjoyable and hassle-free sailing experience. With the wraparound style, you’ll experience reduced irritation from wind and splashes, enhancing comfort and visibility during your maritime endeavors.
Floatability
Considering the maritime environment and the possibility of accidental drops, it’s wise to opt for sailing sunglasses with floatability features. Some sunglasses are ingeniously designed to stay afloat on water surfaces, preventing them from sinking if they end up in the water. This practical feature not only safeguards your investment but also ensures that you can easily retrieve your sunglasses if they fall overboard. Floatable sunglasses are a valuable asset for sailors, providing peace of mind and practicality for your on-water adventures.
Top Sunglasses for Sailing
Now that we’ve covered the essential factors, let’s explore some of the top sunglasses options tailored for sailing enthusiasts.
1. Costa Del Mar Fantail
Costa Del Mar has established itself as a go-to brand for high-quality sunglasses tailored to water enthusiasts, and its Fantail model is no exception. These sunglasses offer an impressive combination of features perfect for sailing. First and foremost, they provide 100% UV protection, ensuring your eyes are shielded from the sun’s harmful rays during your maritime adventures.
The polarized lenses are a standout feature, effectively reducing glare from the water’s surface. This not only enhances your visibility but also minimizes eye strain, allowing you to focus on navigating the open waters.
The Fantail’s nylon frame is both durable and lightweight, ensuring longevity and comfort even during extended periods of wear. Plus, they come in various lens colors, allowing you to choose the ideal tint for different light conditions, from bright, sunny days to overcast skies. When it comes to reliable eye protection on the water, the Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses are a top-tier choice.
2. Maui Jim Ho’okipa
Maui Jim’s Ho’okipa sunglasses have gained popularity among sailors for their exceptional performance in challenging conditions. These sunglasses are equipped with polarized lenses that go the extra mile by incorporating an anti-reflective coating. This feature ensures that even on the sunniest of days, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear vision with minimal glare.
One of the standout aspects of the Ho’okipa sunglasses is their lightweight Grilamid frame. This material not only provides durability but also guarantees comfort, making it an excellent choice for long hours spent on the water.
Whether you’re racing against the wind or leisurely sailing, these sunglasses offer unbeatable visual clarity. With the Maui Jim Ho’okipa sunglasses, you’ll experience superior eye protection and the comfort needed for extended sailing trips.
3. Oakley Flak 2.0 XL
Oakley is synonymous with sporty design and high-performance eyewear, and the Flak 2.0 XL sunglasses are a testament to this reputation. These sunglasses are tailored for those who demand the best when it comes to their eyewear on the water.
The Flak 2.0 XL features polarized lenses, a must-have for sailors facing the sun’s reflection off the water. Oakley takes it a step further with their patented Prizm technology, which enhances contrast and visibility in various conditions. This means you’ll be able to spot potential obstacles with ease, whether you’re navigating a regatta or a leisurely cruise.
The O-Matter frame is lightweight yet incredibly durable, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of sailing. For sailors who value top-tier technology and sporty aesthetics, the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL sunglasses are an exceptional choice.
4. Smith Optics Parallel Max 2
Smith Optics understands the demands of water sports, and the Parallel Max 2 sunglasses are a testament to their commitment to performance. These sunglasses are designed to excel in maritime environments.
The polarized lenses are a key feature, effectively reducing glare from the water’s surface. Additionally, the hydrophilic nose and temple pads keep the sunglasses securely in place, even when they get wet. This means you can confidently wear them in windy conditions or during active sailing maneuvers.
The lightweight TR-90 frame ensures comfort throughout your sailing adventures, even during extended periods of wear. Smith Optics Parallel Max 2 sunglasses offer the perfect balance of functionality and comfort, making them an excellent choice for sailors seeking reliable eye protection.
5. Kaenon Clarke
Kaenon Clarke sunglasses effortlessly blend style and functionality, making them a popular choice for sailors looking for a touch of sophistication on the water. These sunglasses are engineered to excel in marine environments.
The polarized lenses feature a water-repellent coating, ideal for minimizing the impact of splashes and spray. This ensures that your vision remains clear and unobstructed, even in challenging conditions.
Kaenon’s use of lightweight SR-91 lens material offers exceptional clarity, ensuring that you won’t miss a beat while sailing. The combination of style and functionality in the Kaenon Clarke sunglasses makes them a compelling choice for sailors who value both aesthetics and performance.
6. Serengeti Brando
The Serengeti Brando sunglasses are celebrated for their adaptive photochromic lenses, a feature that’s invaluable for sailors who encounter varying light conditions on the water. These lenses automatically adjust to changing light, ensuring optimal visibility throughout your sailing journey.
Aside from their adaptive nature, these lenses provide 100% UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful radiation. They’re suitable for all-day wear, making them ideal for extended sailing trips.
The stylish frame design adds a touch of sophistication to your sailing attire, allowing you to look and feel your best while on board. With the Serengeti Brando sunglasses, you’ll not only enjoy superior eye protection but also a touch of elegance that enhances your sailing experience.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity of your sailing sunglasses, proper maintenance and care are essential.
Cleaning
To maintain the longevity and clarity of your sailing sunglasses, a regular cleaning routine is essential. Start by using a dedicated lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. This combination effectively removes smudges, fingerprints, and salt residue without scratching the lenses. Avoid using abrasive materials like paper towels or clothing, as these can cause fine scratches that impair visibility. A gentle touch and the right cleaning tools will keep your sunglasses looking pristine and ensure they perform at their best, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed views on the water.
Storage
Proper storage is crucial for protecting your sailing sunglasses when they’re not in use. Invest in a suitable protective case designed to shield your sunglasses from potential harm. Storing them in a case prevents accidental impacts, scratches, and exposure to dust or debris that can accumulate on the lenses. A secure case not only safeguards your investment but also ensures that your sunglasses remain in optimal condition and ready for your next sailing adventure.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can have adverse effects on both the frame and lens materials of your sailing sunglasses. Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can cause frame warping or damage lens coatings, compromising their performance. Conversely, extreme cold may make materials more brittle and susceptible to breakage upon impact. To preserve the integrity of your sunglasses, avoid leaving them in extreme heat or cold conditions. When not in use, store them in a moderate-temperature environment, such as your protective case, to maintain their functionality and appearance.
Rinse with Fresh Water
After a day of sailing in saltwater, it’s essential to rinse your sunglasses with fresh water as part of their maintenance routine. Salt deposits from seawater can accumulate on the frame and lens coatings, potentially leading to corrosion or deterioration over time. Rinse your sunglasses thoroughly under a gentle stream of fresh water, ensuring you remove any salt residue. This simple yet effective step helps protect the frame and preserve the quality of the lens coatings, allowing your sunglasses to endure many more enjoyable days on the water without the damaging effects of salt exposure.
To learn about the essentials for your sailing trip, check out this article.
Conclusion
Investing in the right pair of sunglasses for sailing is not just a matter of style; it’s about protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and enhancing your overall sailing experience. Consider the key factors discussed in this guide, including UV protection, lens material, fit, and polarization, when selecting your perfect pair. Whether you choose the Costa Del Mar Fantail, Maui Jim Ho’okipa, Oakley Flak 2.0 XL, Smith Optics Parallel Max 2, Kaenon Clarke, or Serengeti Brando, you’ll be well-prepared to face the sun and the sea with confidence. Remember to maintain and care for your sunglasses to maximize their lifespan and keep your eyes safe on every sailing adventure. With the right sunglasses on your side, you can fully enjoy the beauty and thrill of sailing while ensuring your eyes are well protected from the elements.
Please note that the contents of this blog are for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Any action taken based on the information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Additionally, all images used in this blog are generated under the CC0 license of Creative Commons, which means they are free to use for any purpose without attribution.